Page:The Tenant of Wildfell Hall (emended first edition), Volume 2.djvu/172

162 "Why, no: I hardly can, under the circumstances; but be assured, love, I shall not be long away."

"I don't wish to keep you a prisoner at home," I replied: "I should not grumble at your staying whole months away—if you can be happy so long without me—provided, I knew you were safe; but I don't like the idea of your being there, among your friends, as you call them."

"Pooh, pooh, you silly girl! Do you think I can't take care of myself?"

"You didn't last time.—But time, Arthur," I added, earnestly, "show me that you can, and teach me that I need not fear to trust you!"

He promised fair, but in such a manner as we seek to sooth a child. And did he keep his promise? No;—and, henceforth, I can never trust his word. Bitter, bitter confession! Tears blind me while I write. It was early in March that he went, and he did not return till July This time, he did not trouble himself to make